Many species of birds have started their migration through many hot-spots across Nebraska.
Sandhill cranes have started to fly into the Platte River Valley in areas between Kearney and Grand Island. The cranes can be seen feeding in the fields during the day and resting in the Platte River at night.
The American White Pelican has also been seen in the area, with several hundred spotted at the Harlan County Reservoir over the weekend.
American
White Pelicans are one of North America's largest birds, with wingspans over
nine feet. Their four-foot-tall bodies
are mostly white, with black primaries and outer secondary wings.
The White Pelican can be found floating on the water scooping up fish with its big bill. The birds usually are found in large flocks making them easy to see.
Central Nebraska was once part of an
inland sea which is why hundreds of bird species come to central Nebraska. They still
follow the ancient migration routes through the North American Central Flyway from
the gulf coast and Mexico up to their breeding grounds in the northern U.S.
states and Canada.
Harlan
County hosts the White Pelican Homecoming Celebration, which includes free birding boat
tours for out-of-town visitors, a week-long nature-based art show, a
business-based "Spring Fling" in Alma, several live music events, a
public and artists reception featuring Nebraska wines and hors d'oeuvres and
many other activities.
Contact the Harlan County Tourism office at 1-800-762-5498,
harlancountytourism@yahoo.com or visit their website for more information.
